Novel Update
Chapter 2261
Chapter 2261
As they walked ahead, laughing, Old Mr. Jarvis noticed Gabriel catching up and immediately stopped to give an order, "Why are you following me? Go take care of the guests!"
Gabriel instinctively turned his head towards Sylvia, who lifted her gaze, her eyes clear and sparkling.
Estelle, who had been walking with Sylvia, moved ahead to find Jonathan, saying, "Jonathan, I'm going to the backyard to grab some persimmon cakes. Wanna come with?"
"Sure!" Jonathan and Estelle made their way down the cobblestone path, turning a corner to head to the backyard.
Gabriel, a step slower, waited for Sylvia to catch up, and they walked shoulder to shoulder.
A couple of days ago, C City had seen its first snow of the season. There were still patches of snow unmelted, clinging to the newly bloomed red plum blossoms, making their sweet fragrance even more intoxicating.
A gust of wind came, scattering the snow and sending plum petals dancing in the air. Gabriel stepped sideways to shield the girl next to him, his handsome features highlighted in the moment.
He spoke softly, "What brings you to C City?"
Sylvia intended to explain that her visit was unplanned, but her words turned into a slightly coquettish chuckle, "Am I not welcome?"
"Not at all," Gabriel replied, looking at her, "Just a bit surprised, that's all."Nôvel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.
Sylvia's voice softened, "I'm surprised too, to see you again."
"Are you on a break?" Gabriel inquired.
Sylvia smiled lightly, "Work's pretty much done. I'm free now."
Gabriel nodded, "Then you can stay in C City a bit longer."
Sylvia's smile remained, "Sure, I was planning to travel over the holidays anyway. Might as well start with C City."
"Where to next?" Gabriel asked.
Sylvia's smile faltered slightly, suddenly unsure of what to say. She wasn't used to lying, especially not in front of him. Even a lie would be seen through.
Mr. Justin knew Magdalen's preferences like the back of his hand, ensuring none of her favorite dishes were missing. Magdalen smiled at Old Mr. Jarvis, "You really should reward Mr. Justin. He's saved you a bundle on holiday gifts." Old Mr. Jarvis chuckled, "I'll make sure to praise him later!"
As everyone took their seats, it seemed no coincidence that Gabriel and Sylvia ended up sitting together.
Perhaps due to the imposing aura of
the man beside her, Sylvia kept to herself treating their interaction as if they were strangers, neither neglecting nor engaging in small talk.
οι
The man found her demure behavior somewhat amusing.
Estelle brought over the persimmon cakes, their vibrant color instantly adding a sense of togetherness to the table.
Old Wade had someone warm up
some plum wine, its refreshing sour-sweet aroma mixing with the scent of alcohol, making everyone's mouth water.
Old Mr. Jarvis announced, "We also have fruit tea for those who don't drink alcohol."
Magdalen was tempted by the wine but didn't dare ignore Morrison's advice, opting for tea instead, "Then I'll join you with tea!"
Estelle had stopped taking birth control pills half a month earlier and obediently poured herself some tea as well.
Sylvia spoke up, "Then I'll join Old Mr. Jarvis for some plum wine."
Old Mr. Jarvis looked at her sharply, "Can you handle it?"
"Just a little, to accompany you," Sylvia filled her cup, "Thank you for your hospitality."
Her gesture was more out of respect for the old man than anything. Regardless of what Old Mr. Jarvis thought about her relationship with Gabriel, his kindness and tolerance touched her deeply, making her more than willing to share a drink with him.
With that, she lifted her cup and took a generous sip.